You will often find mugs on lists of the best or most popular promotional products. This is because they have large branding areas to fit logos and artwork, and because they are used multiple times every day. To add to the versatility - they are used in offices, homes, schools - even building sites! By far the most popular type of mug is the classic ceramic mug - whether it's tall and slim or big and chunky; white, red or black - it is the standard earthenware type that we have all grown to love. But  there is so much more to ‘Mugs’ than this! Below are some of the different types of mugs and drink ware that are available, that you might not have considered before. Have a read and see if the special features they offer could add to your next campaign!

1. Bone China Mugs

Promotional bone china mugs are sturdy and durable in spite of their delicate looks

Promotional bone china mugs are perfect for businesses who want their brand to be exposed multiple times over a long period, as they are very strong and durable. Not only will people be able to keep these mugs for a long time, but they will want to, as they are perceived as being high-quality and despite their strength, have a delicate and elegant feel. China mugs could be given to long standing customers as part of a loyalty scheme, or to other business people who you want to establish a relationship with. They are also great to buy for your own workplace. Your staff will feel a greater bond with your brand when they use them, and you can also serve hot beverages to visitors in beautiful bone china mugs branded with your logo - to reinforce your corporate message.

 2. Takeaway Mugs

Promotional takeaway mugs can be printed in full colour all around the surface and have different coloured lids

Our clients that usually go for promotional takeaway mugs are either larger enterprises or coffee houses. For an office based business, a takeaway mug offers a unique gift to reward your staff. In one action you can show your appreciation and help expose your brand to a wider audience. Because hot beverages are associated with comfort, relaxation and safety, by giving it to your staff, you arouse the feelings of warmth and gratitude towards the company outside of the office building. Using the item outside, when travelling to and from the office, will encourage brand interest from fellow commuters. If you run a coffee house or café and want to set yourselves apart from the multitudes of other big  brands that are dominating the high street, one way of doing this would be to give away takeaway mugs to customers who have visited your shop a certain number of times. Not only will this be a motivation to customers to keep getting their coffee from you in order to get their free gift, but it will make them feel valued and remind them of your brand once they have received it, bringing them back to your establishment again and again. These mugs are perfect for really personalised branding too, as they have lids and grips that can be printed and coloured to suit you.

3. Colour Change Mugs

Promotional colour change mugs reveal an extra design once filled with a hot drink

Promotional colour change mugs are designed for really clever branding, as they will change their design when hot liquid is poured in. This is a great opportunity to raise awareness if you're conducting changes in your company or if you want to show how well you respond to changes in your environment. This is due to the before-and-after character of these mugs. Another benefit of these mugs is that they can be a talking point. If you are holding a business meeting, conference or seminar and you want your guests / colleagues to feel relaxed and open, offering them fun, novelty mugs or something with a really strong message will give them an opportunity to start chatting to one another and voicing their opinions. For more inspiration on colour change mugs, see how WWF used them to promote their cause.

4. Plastic Mugs

This promotional drawing mug lets recipients add their own insert to personalise their mug

For businesses that have an outdoorsy element, or whose clients work on or around construction sites, promotional plastic mugs are one of the most appropriate choices as they will not smash or break. They are also perfect for schools and kids clubs, as they are safe for children to use and come in a range of vibrant colours. For something extra child-friendly, why not try a mug that can be customised by the user - this plastic mug is designed to hold a paper insert that a child, (or adult) can draw their own picture on. This could be a good idea for design businesses who want to inspire creativity in their customers as well as give them something practical! Plastic mugs are equally as good as ceramic mugs at holding hot drinks, so don't worry about the vessel melting away in your clients' hands!

5. Flasks

Promotional flasks are double-walled to keep the drink temperature for longer

Promotional flasks are ideal if you are looking for a drinks receptacle that will keep a drink's temperature for longer. They usually come in stainless steel and will keep drinks warm or cool. These corporate gifts are higher end purchases but if you consider the recipients carefully, they will be kept and used - and your logo will be in a prime position. A good target market for promotional flasks are long distance drivers, commuters or travelling enthusiasts.   Mugs are just some items to inspire you in new ways to make the most of your marketing campaign. Browse our catalogue for more corporate gifts, or contact us for more advice or suggestions on 01204 577 995.